Black, Nigerian-American, and Female...
First of all, I'd like to say that I'm tired. And I am tired of being tired. Can you imagine being labeled as a minority all your life? But I must say being Black, Nigerian, American and a woman is absolutely amazing! I love me and all the struggles and hurdles I've had to/continue to dominate over in both my personally and professional journeys.
Growing up, I can remember mayor candidates knocking on our door to ask for my parents' support or their vote. Politics has never been something I've been interested in so after asking who was at the door... the conversation ended. So fast forward to today, October 30th, 2020, although I am still not interested in politics I know I must be! My two identities - Nigerian and American are both going through some shit.
Nigeria: Over the last two weeks there have been peaceful protests by the youths (aka including me) throughout the country against police brutality #EndSARS. On October 20th, 2020, I witnessed the Lekki Massacre live on a couple of IG stories. Basically, the Nigerian army killing peaceful protesters at Lekki Toll Gate.
America: We are counting down to our next presidential election on November 3rd, 2020. I felt like the biggest loser last election because I thought I couldn't vote because I was based abroad. Guess who is voting via email this election?
But on some self-reflection, I need to be more active in politics. It's about police brutality, healthcare, women rights, climate change, immigrant rights, LGBTQ rights, student debt, economic inequality, oil & gas, and so much more. I got to love politics - it's about my now, and my future! Although I know who I am voting for in the US elections, I need to be more strategic towards Nigerian elections as well (both local and federal). So this has given birth to my Q4 personal project - Politics & governance 101 for my two identities.
Today, I voted in my living room. Yup, voting abroad.
But lots of love to those out queuing on lines to express their good ol' right to vote!